Family Court Advice (UK)
Practical, plain-English guidance for anyone facing the family court in England and Wales — whether you're applying, responding, or preparing for a hearing without a solicitor.
What is the family court?
The family court decides private matters between parents (such as who a child lives with and spends time with), public law cases brought by the local authority, non-molestation and occupation orders, and financial remedy on divorce. Most private cases follow a clear sequence of hearings — this page walks you through it.
The stages, in order
Before you apply
Most people must attend a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) before applying, unless an exemption applies (e.g. domestic abuse, urgency, child protection). If mediation isn't suitable, the mediator signs your C100 form.
MIAM guide →Starting your application
Private children matters use form C100; if there are safeguarding or abuse concerns you also file C1A. The court fee is currently £255. You can apply for fee remission if you're on a low income.
Application stage →The first hearing (FHDRA)
The First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment is where the judge and Cafcass identify the issues, safeguarding concerns, and whether the case can be resolved by agreement. You should attend with a short position statement.
FHDRA guide →Fact-finding hearings
If serious allegations are made (e.g. domestic abuse), the court may list a fact-finding hearing. You'll need a Scott Schedule setting out each allegation, and written statements with any supporting evidence.
Fact-finding guide →Dispute Resolution Appointment (DRA)
A second chance to settle before final hearing. The judge will give a view on likely outcomes to encourage agreement. Come prepared with a realistic proposal.
DRA guide →The final hearing
Evidence is heard, witnesses are cross-examined, and the judge makes a final Child Arrangements Order. You'll need a witness statement, a bundle in PD27A order, and a short opening/closing.
Final hearing guide →How to prepare as a litigant in person
- Keep a written chronology from day one — dates, incidents, missed contact, communications.
- File a short position statement (1–2 pages) before every hearing.
- Never rely on memory in the witness box; take a paginated bundle in PD27A order.
- Address the judge as "Sir", "Madam", or "Your Honour" (Circuit Judge). Stay calm — never interrupt.
- Focus on the child's welfare, not on the other parent. The court applies the s.1 welfare checklist.
Common questions
Do I need a solicitor for the family court?
No. Many people represent themselves as litigants in person. You can get one-off help from Citizens Advice, Support Through Court, or pay a solicitor for a fixed-fee advice session without full representation.
What is a MIAM?
A Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting. In most private family cases you must attend one (or be exempt) before you can apply to court.
How long does a family court case take?
Private children cases commonly take 6–12 months, sometimes longer if fact-finding or expert evidence is needed. Consent orders can be much quicker.
Can I take someone into court with me?
Yes — a McKenzie friend can sit with you, take notes and quietly advise. They can only address the court if the judge grants rights of audience, which is rare.
Will the children have to give evidence?
Almost never. Their wishes and feelings are usually gathered by Cafcass and put before the court in a section 7 report.
Where to get further help
- Citizens Advice — free general guidance.
- Support Through Court — volunteers who can attend hearings with you.
- Rights of Women — free legal advice line for women on family law.
- Family Rights Group — advice on public law and social services involvement.
- A solicitor for a fixed-fee advice session before key hearings.
Get organised with my family court
Track your case, log a chronology, draft statements with AI assistance, and build a court-ready bundle — all in one place.